Westport CT

Westport, Connecticut

Westport, Connecticut Quick Facts: Land area is approximately 20 Square miles and the elevation is 140 feet. Incorporated in 1835, Westport currently has about 27,000 residents in 9,800 households, 82% of which are owner occupied. Approximately 31.7% of the housing stock was built prior to 1950. The 2012-2013 Tax Rate is 17.91 mills.See the 2011-2012 property tax rate here.

A charming and wealthy coastal town, Westport Connecticut is located on Long Island Sound in affluent Fairfield County. Semi-rural areas and privately situated homes create a tranquil, yet easily commutable location for anyone needing or wanting close proximity to New York City. Many residents utilize both train stations in town, and have the ability to get to NYC in record time.

One of the wealthiest towns in the country, this diversified and cosmopolitan town also boasts coastal beauty and rustic woodland scenery. Sherwood Island State Park is the towns 'gift' to state residents, and is one of the largest designated picnic and beach grounds in all of Fairfield County.

At the same time, the small town ambience is evident, and residents enjoy a vast array of boutique shopping in the trendy downtown shopping district, which draws a sophisticated and affluent clientele. Westport's Main Street businesses are a pleasant mix of boutiques and well known upper end stores, with newer store fronts and quaint colonial facades adorning this mini-mecca. Walk into one of the shops on Main Street and exit through the back, and you've just entered Parker Harding Plaza, with beautiful views of the Saugatuck River.

Some of the late 19th century buildings still remain here, have been restored to better than new condition, and house a variety of different businesses and shops. The library and the Levitt Pavilion are just a short walk away. The Westport Country Playhouse is closeby, too. Westport is chock full of superb cultural, recreational and educational facilities.

Local residents support the school system, and their support and involvement helps to create a very tight knit community. Westport's School system is well known throughout the area, and education has always been a priority for local government.

It has been said that Westport had literally been 'Adopted' in the 1920's by many artists and writers as a peaceful retreat for inspiration in their works. Long considered an 'artsy' type of community, this town is also home to many celebrities. A charming landscape and beautiful oceanfront scenery add to the appeal, which has made this town a favorite in Fairfield County.